Taken on Western Michigan University’s campus in Kalamazoo, MI (Flickr)

There are few things in life as stressful as the search for off-campus housing. Anyone who’s attempted it before knows that getting a group together, synching up your schedules and finding the perfect place to live can seem like an impossible feat.

For this reason, we took some of the work out of the process. We searched through hundreds of reviews on Google and selected the top ten places to rent at WMU.

Cedar Trail offers one and two bedroom apartments just a short bus ride away from WMU. The rates are reasonable, and there is an overwhelming consensus from reviewers that the apartments offer tremendous quality for the price. Those who like to stay active will be thrilled to know the complex has both basketball and volleyball courts, a swimming pool, and a fitness center, allowing residents to reverse the effects of their “freshman fifteen.” If the amenities weren’t enough, Cedar Trail’s friendly and helpful staff serves as the cherry on top of an already sweet deal.

Managed by Trident Properties, a Kalamazoo-based company that specializes in off-campus housing, Embassy Terrace is a student-friendly community just steps from the WMU campus. Residents of Embassy Terrace enjoy townhome style, multi-level living with spacious interiors and convenient amenities. A swimming pool and a free—yes, we said free—gym membership are just a few of the perks that come with a lease at Embassy Terrace. The complex even provides its residents with free heat to get you through those harsh, Michigan winters.

If you’re looking for the quintessential college experience with a luxury twist, Hidden Hills Apartments is the place for you. The complex offers two to four bedroom units complete with free Internet/cable, in-unit laundry and access to the complex’s hot tub and swimming pool. Can’t live without your canine companion? Word has it that Hidden Hills has one of the lowest pet rents in town and doesn’t restrict dogs based on size and weight. Though the aforementioned perks should be enough to entice prospective tenants, what truly sets Hidden Hills apart from the competition is the staff. According to past residents, everyone from the property managers to the maintenance crew goes above and beyond to provide a safe, clean and comfortable environment for the students who chose Hidden Hills as their home away from home.

Kendall Manor takes a no-nonsense approach to off-campus housing at WMU. You won’t pay for unnecessary frills or amenities you’ll never use here, which means the complex boasts some of the most affordable rent prices near campus. They even offer students a GPA Discount, so living here not only benefits your grades but your wallet as well. Lastly, residents have nothing but praise for the property manager and staff, who are always understanding and friendly.

Located just one block from the University, Whitehall Apartments is the premier off-campus location for students at Western Michigan.
Despite its proximity to campus, residents have commented that it’s a pretty peaceful place to live, perfect for students who want to be close to class but still keep a low profile—your mom would be so proud. The property manager, Lisa, seems like a genuine superstar and is mentioned multiple times by residents in their positive reviews.

Newly renovated and close to campus, The Bronco Club is one of the most popular off-campus housing options for students at WMU. With everything from cozy two bedrooms to spacious six bedroom townhomes, you are guaranteed to have the perfect amount of space for you and your newfound friends. Residents can also take advantage of their extensive amenity package, including everything from a community clubhouse to an off-leash dog park.

With a great location and countless amenities, Arboretum Apartments has something for every student at WMU. Can’t get enough of the outdoors? The complex houses a swimming pool, beach volleyball, and even an outdoor gaming area. Like to stay inside? Arboretum’s clubhouse, indoor fitness center, and beautiful interiors will make you feel like you’ll never want to leave. The apartments even come with a full-size washer and dryer, so you won’t have to lug your mountains of laundry home on the weekends.Greenhill Apartments

Nestled on over 40 acres of wooded land, Greenhill Apartments offers a safe and serene environment while still being convenient to WMU. Living at Greenhill sounds more like a weekend vacation than an off-campus abode. Residents of Greenhill can cool off in the swimming pool on hot summer days or cozy up to their electric fireplace on snowy winter nights. Most importantly, though, residents have commented that they always felt safe and well-cared for while living at Greenhill.

Campus Court at Knollwood offers resort-style living to students at Western Michigan University. A brand new, two-story fitness center, sparkling swimming pool, and free tanning are only a few of the perks that accompany a lease at Campus Court. The apartments are updated with modern finishes, and you have the option to lease by the bed, so you won’t be penalized when your roommate forgets to pay his half of the rent. Best of all, you can walk to class and still make it there on time.

Dover Hills is a beautiful apartment community in a convenient location—close to Arboretum Parkway and a quick commute to WMU. The apartments are generously sized and there is plenty of closet space to house your shoe collection—don’t worry, we won’t judge. Residents appreciate the convenient amenities and say the staff is always friendly and helpful when problems arise.

Callie Kollenbroich has been the Operations Coordinator and Content Writer/Editor at Rent College Pads since 2015. When she’s not working, you can find her at home, eating peanut butter out of the jar and bingeing an unhealthy amount of Forensic Files. She’s not as lame as she sounds.